Leaves almost done,
their curled up edges
clumped in scattered
piles awaiting that rasp
of tines scraping
itself against hardened
lawn surface.
Footfalls from children
once tumbled
in delight as adults
barbecued burgers
when friends
inclined to visit
delivering gossip
from all directions.
Now he muses during a
restful watch, limbs
and breath coming
in shortened spasms
sweat no longer steaming
shifts from one foot
to the other
dear one about to call
him in for lunch
just one more sweep
beside the maple
should complete this
morning’s task
and he does in a
burst of satisfied
expression.
© Richard L. Provencher
Website: www.wsprog.com/rp/
